Reviving Air Links: Kuwait and Israel Reopen Skies to India Amid Gulf Flight Improvements

In a significant development, Kuwaiti and Israeli airspace have reopened, signaling a progressive recovery in the Gulf's aviation sector. Two airlines are set to resume operations from Kuwait to India, as per Aseem R Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), Ministry of External Affairs, during a pivotal press briefing in the nation's capital.

'Since February 28th, 12,38,000 passengers have traveled from the region to India, and the flight situation is continuing to improve,' Mahajan stated. With Kuwaiti airspace now open, Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways are prepared to restart limited flights to India. Meanwhile, Israel has also lifted airspace restrictions, enhancing connectivity options for travelers headed to India.

The Additional Secretary elaborated that flight operations between the UAE and India remain limited, and noted the resume of flights from Saudi Arabia and Oman to diverse Indian destinations. Despite partial closure, Qatar and Iran's airspace still facilitate cargo and select flights, with the Indian Embassy in Tehran arranging safe passage for nationals wishing to leave, amid ongoing tensions.

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the ongoing challenges in Iran despite a ceasefire, appreciating the Indian Ambassador's efforts in Tehran. Their operations have safely repatriated over 2,400 Indian nationals, including many students and fishermen. The ministry is dedicated to monitoring the situation, ensuring the welfare of Indians in the region, and providing necessary support through its control room and updated advisories.

(With inputs from agencies.)